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Silver Trout Are Moving In

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By MEL BERMAN

Tribune correspondent

Published: January 9, 2009

GO FISHING is a look at the area fishing scene through the eyes of local charter boat captains and fishing guides. Today: Mel Berman.

Every winter, huge schools of frisky silver trout move into local waters.

Coming in from the Gulf and onto the deeper flats near passes and inside most barrier islands, silvers generally forage on the bottom seeking morsels of food that might seep out of crab traps or smaller baitfish and crustaceans.

A member of the drum family, silver trout are cousins to the popular speckled trout, whiting and sand trout. For their size, they put up an enthusiastic fight. Jigs with sparkling tails slowly worked across the bottom in about 6 to 10 feet usually produce several hookups.

There is no limit on silver trout, with most taking only what they need for dinner.

According to Sarasota captain Bob Smith, the mild conditions have had an impact on many migratory species. He said kingfish are still being caught offshore, which is not normal in January.

However, most of the action in coastal waters has been on Key West grunts caught on jigs tipped with shrimp. Smith said natural bottom in 40 to 60 feet has been the most productive.

Though many "short grouper" are being caught, some keepers are available in these depths.

"Fresh-caught live pinfish and grunts make excellent bait for larger fish like grouper," Smith said. "On the bay, I like to free-line my pinfish. Pinfish normally dive to the bottom, but if you see him dancing on top, you know you're on a good spot."

Another possibility would be to locate a drop-off or trench in the grass flats. On any good moving tide, you should also be able to hook several larger winter trout using jigs or shrimp.

Hear "The Captain Mel Show" Saturdays from 6-9 a.m. on 970 AM. Also, visit "Fishing Florida OnLine Magazine" at capmel.com.

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